Steaming Jasmine Rice: Is It Possible?

Jasmine rice is a fragrant, long-grain rice variety with a nutty flavour and a slightly sticky texture. It is commonly available in the United States and is grown primarily in Thailand. While it can be cooked on a stovetop, it can also be cooked in a rice cooker or steamer. The steps for preparing jasmine rice are the same across these methods. First, the rice must be rinsed several times until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Next, the rice is cooked with a 1:1 ratio of rice to water. After cooking, the rice should be left to rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Rinsing the rice

After agitating the rice, pour the contents of the bowl into a colander or strainer to drain the dirty water. Rinse the bowl and return the rice to it, covering it again with clean, cold water. Repeat the rinsing process for a second time, agitating the rice for another 2 to 3 minutes. The water should be less cloudy this time. Finally, pour out the water one last time, draining and shaking the rice to remove excess moisture. If the water is still very cloudy, you may need to repeat the rinsing process until the water is mostly clear.

Rice-to-water ratio

The rice-to-water ratio is crucial for achieving the perfect texture when cooking jasmine rice. The ratio will vary depending on the cooking method and your personal preference for the rice's firmness. Here is a detailed guide:

Rice Cooker:

When cooking jasmine rice in a rice cooker, the recommended rice-to-water ratio is typically 1:1. This means using the same cup or measuring tool, add one cup of water for every cup of rice. This ratio is suitable for most jasmine rice brands and varieties. However, some types of jasmine rice may require slightly less or more water, so it is essential to refer to the package instructions or adjust the ratio based on your experience with a specific brand.

Instant Pot:

Similar to a rice cooker, the recommended rice-to-water ratio for cooking jasmine rice in an Instant Pot is also 1:1. This ensures that your rice turns out fluffy and separate, rather than sticky or mushy. Remember to use the same cup for measuring both the rice and the water to maintain accuracy.

Stove-Top:

When cooking jasmine rice on a stove-top, the rice-to-water ratio will depend on your preference for rice texture. For firmer rice, a ratio of 1:1 is suitable. However, if you prefer softer rice, a ratio of 1:1.5 can be used, adding one and a half cups of water for every cup of rice. This slight increase in water will ensure your rice is fluffy and thoroughly cooked.

General Tips:

• It is important to rinse jasmine rice before cooking to remove impurities and excess starch. Rinsing the rice will prevent it from becoming sticky or mushy.
• When rinsing, use several changes of water and continue the process until the water runs clear.
• After rinsing, ensure that you drain the rice thoroughly before adding it to the cooking vessel.
• Avoid soaking jasmine rice before cooking, as this can affect the water-to-rice ratio and lead to softer rice.
• Always use the same cup or measuring tool for both the rice and the water to ensure accuracy in your ratios.
• When cooking on a stove-top, bring the water to a rolling boil before adding the rice to ensure even cooking.
• After cooking, allow the rice to rest for 10 minutes before serving. This gives the rice time to finish absorbing the water and fluffing up perfectly.

By following these rice-to-water ratios and tips, you can achieve perfectly cooked jasmine rice, whether you're using a rice cooker, Instant Pot, or stove-top.

Cooking time

The cooking time for jasmine rice in a steamer will vary depending on the quantity of rice being cooked, the type of steamer being used, and individual preferences for rice texture.

For soft and fluffy jasmine rice, a general rule of thumb is to steam the rice for around 10 minutes. This can be adjusted depending on how firm or dry you like your rice. For a firmer texture, the steaming time can be extended to 12 minutes. After steaming, it is important to let the rice sit for an additional 5 minutes without opening the lid.

When cooking jasmine rice in a strainer or steamer basket, it is recommended to parboil the rice for 4 minutes before steaming it for 10 minutes. Again, for a softer texture, the parboiling or steaming time can be adjusted.

It is worth noting that the cooking time may vary depending on the quality of cookware and the heat source used. Therefore, it is important to test and adjust the cooking time accordingly to achieve the desired rice texture.

Resting the rice

The resting period also serves another purpose. It allows the rice to cool slightly and firm up, making it easier to handle and preventing it from becoming mushy when fluffed. This step is often overlooked, but it is essential in achieving the perfect jasmine rice.

Additionally, the resting period gives the rice grains a chance to separate, ensuring they do not clump together. This is especially important if you are using a rice cooker, as the rice tends to be cooked in a compact space. By allowing the rice to rest, you give it room to breathe and ensure each grain is cooked perfectly.

Finally, the resting period lets the rice gently finish cooking without overdoing it. This is crucial in achieving the desired texture and taste. As the rice rests, it absorbs the flavours and aromas, resulting in a more fragrant and tasty dish.

In conclusion, resting the rice is a critical step in cooking jasmine rice. It ensures the rice is cooked to perfection, with the right texture, taste, and consistency. By following this step, you will achieve fluffy, fragrant, and slightly sticky rice that is a delight to eat.

Fluffing the rice

To fluff the rice, use a fork or spoon to gently stir and separate the grains. Be careful not to scratch the inner pot of your cooker or steamer. If you have a rice paddle, you can use this instead. Just gently turn the rice around with the paddle or use a fork to fluff it.

It is also important to let the rice rest in the steamer after cooking. This allows the steam to distribute evenly throughout the rice, resulting in fluffy grains. For example, after cooking, let the rice sit in the steamer with the lid on for at least 5 minutes. You can also keep it in the steamer to stay warm until you're ready to serve.

If you are cooking on a stovetop, the process is similar. After simmering the rice for 20 minutes, remove the pot from the heat and let it stand for an additional 5 minutes. Then, fluff the rice with a fork and serve.

Frequently asked questions